Heinrich von Meißen, or Frauenlob, aimed to renew spiritual life through his comprehensive theological education and interest in theological matters, as demonstrated in works like the Kreuzleich.
Compositional Technique
The Kreuzleich is one of the most complex and theologically ambitious German poems from the Middle Ages, summarizing the theological knowledge of its time in 22 verses.
Compositional Technique
In the Kreuzleich, Heinrich von Meißen quotes from 21 books of the Bible, commentaries by church fathers, and Latin hymns, drawing from a vast range of theological sources.
Composer Biography
Heinrich von Meißen, also known as Frauenlob, is considered one of the most famous 'Twelve Old Masters' of German Minnesang, alongside Walter von der Vogelweide and Wolfram von Eschenbach.
Recording & Production
Karsten Gundermann reconstructed the melodies of the Kreuzleich over four years and created a modern, performable version for soli, chamber choir, and symphony orchestra for this album.
Interpretation
The original medieval performance practice of the Kreuzleich is largely unknown, but it is believed that Heinrich von Meißen worked with multiple soloists, choirs, and instrumentalists.
Composition History
The Kreuzleich is an extended sung poem by Heinrich von Meißen (ca. 1250-1318) about the Holy Cross, which was revered as a relic during his time.
